Taysha Malesa

1.    Who is Taysha? 

I’m a gentle natured introvert, who values wellness, growth and spaciousness in my daily life. I had a bit of a unique upbringing to say the least - raised on the Mornington Peninsula (still here!) by a family of artists and spiritual seekers. Throughout most of my childhood, I felt like I was living in two worlds - the ‘normal’ one where I went to school, made friends and did normal kid things, and the ‘other’ where we went to vibrant meditation and chanting programs with a community of hundreds that all felt like family. These days I feel like I have integrated both worlds a lot more, which is exactly what our yoga tells us - to be a yogi in the world and not hide in a cave.

With so much creativity in my life, it’s no wonder that I now run a brand and web design studio. My small studio is coming up on its fourth year, and I am incredibly blessed to have worked with so many inspiring female founders, like Sheri of FRIISMITH, to bring their brands to the next stage. One of my favourite parts about what I do is seeing the transformation it brings to both owner and brand—I feel like I get to experience a little piece of that with every project I work on.

2.    What is the number one lesson you've learned that you would share with your 12 year old self if you could?

To slow down, breathe, and be open and willing to see what the world will bring you. At 12, I felt like I had to be an adult and make so many important decisions. I put so much pressure on myself to grow up! Epictetus, a stoic philosopher, says ‘you ought to behave in life as you would at a banquet’. What that means is you don’t need to tire yourself out by using your will to push for the next plate, the next circumstance or thing, but let what comes, come. Put out your hand and share with moderation. And let what is finished leave.

3.    What does wellbeing mean to you personally and how do you practise self-care/self-love?

Wellbeing to me is spiritual, physical, mental and social. It’s also balance. I tend towards aiming for the ‘best’ but I’ve found that doing things that make me feel good or return me towards a steady equilibrium is the real best. Striving for perfection is often the opposite! I think understanding what you value in life really helps you understand what those things are. I know I have more energy and more awareness when I make time for myself - whether it’s making sure I do my skincare routine everyday, exercising or simply not rushing through life. I’m always seeking to make every day more intentional. 

4.    How do you ensure you prioritise the time to focus on your wellness journey?

Gentle accountability and consistency is a big thing for me. I make sure to schedule time for what I need for myself to feel well. Navigating through life with endometriosis can be a tough thing. In the past, I ignored what I needed as a way to escape how much it was actually affecting me, and then suddenly things would fall apart and become unmanageable. These days I am so much more aware of when I need rest, ease and slowness. I now live by a schedule that supports me - motivating me to do what I need when I have the energy, and supporting me when I don’t.

5.    Who inspires you the most and why?

I’m going to be a bit selfish here and say both my past and future self. I struggled heavily with my mental health as a teenager, and sometimes when I’m in the swing of things it’s easy to forget how much I’ve really grown. Looking back and being grateful for what that time taught me never ceases to inspire me. I also feel equally inspired about the future - and that’s saying something as it used to terrify me. I know who I am and the person I want to be. I feel excited about the life I’m building in all aspects, and that inspires me to take action towards it every day.

6.    What does radiance mean to you?

Radiance is magnetic, its sunshine and light. I believe we all have radiance within us, and we can always draw from it and share it with the world in whatever form is true for you.

7.    What is your favourite FRII[S]MITH product and why do you love it?

Do I really have to pick one? Oh dear. I’ve been using these incredible products since we started working together nearly three years ago and I haven’t picked up another brand since. They’re just too good! My skin has never been better. I use the Ultimate Skin Health Set daily, but I will say that the Active Day Serum and Active Moisturiser might have to be my favourites. I love the glow and subtle sparkle that they bring to my skin.

www.tayshamalesacreativeco.com.au

@tmcreative.co